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Some Dog Thoughts

Stars and Stripes Dog Rescue Celebrates First Graduate of Veteran-Owned/Handler Service Dog Training Program for PTSD



Orangevale, CA September 2024 – Stars and Stripes Dog Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and transforming them into service animals for veterans, proudly announces the graduation of its first veteran-owned/handler from the Service Dog Training Program for PTSD. This unique program empowers veterans to take an active role in training their own dogs, transforming both the veteran and their dog into a unified team that can face the challenges of PTSD together.


The program was designed to give veterans with PTSD a hands-on role in training their service dogs, offering therapeutic benefits, and fostering a deep bond with their canine companions. The first graduate, Curt, worked alongside Shadow, through an intensive training process that prepared both for success in everyday life.


“We’re thrilled to celebrate Shadow as the first graduate of this new program,” said Susan Aimes, Founder of Stars and Stripes Dog Rescue. “By allowing veterans to train their own dogs, we are not just giving them a companion but also a meaningful sense of accomplishment and empowerment. This program helps veterans take control of their healing journey, and the bond that forms between them and their dogs is extraordinary.”


Program Highlights:

  • Veteran-led training: The program allows veterans to be directly involved in the training of their own service dogs, fostering trust, teamwork, and emotional support.

  • Rescue dogs as service animals: Once at risk of euthanasia, these rescue dogs now serve as life-saving companions for veterans coping with PTSD.

  • Holistic approach to healing: The training process is designed to benefit both the veteran and the dog, creating a therapeutic relationship that helps veterans manage their PTSD symptoms and regain a sense of independence.


Curt and Shadow’s successfully completed the program after many months of hard work and dedication, marking a milestone for Stars and Stripes Dog Rescue and setting the stage for future graduates. This program not only transforms lives but also saves dogs, making it a win-win for all involved.


For more information about the program or to get involved, please visit www.starsandstripesdogrescue.org or email us at starsandstripesrescue@gmail.com.

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